England have the advantage of the highest points difference, and they play last, knowing exactly what is required of them to win the 6 Nations Championship, and they can adapt their game plan to the situation. France of course have the slimmest of chances of winning the Championship as well, if Ireland and Wales lose and they beat the English, but that seems sensationally unlikely.
England actually started quite strongly last week, which makes a change, as the French played the most dire half of rugby I've ever had the misfortune to watch. We actively decided not to review it, because it was too painful to relive those memories. Last week we predicted Jack Nowell would have a good game against the Scots, and of course he did, marred slightly by handling errors but he looked very dangerous on the ball. He will look to carry that in to this game, and will be seeking the buzz of a Twickenham try once more. Geoff Parling returns to the England side, which will delight the fans as Attwood has looked slightly out of form of late, and the British & Irish Lion is just the man to come back and give the English pack a lift.
Plisson comes in for the injured Lopez in the French side, whilst Spedding retains his spot ahead of Dulin after his great run set up the Maestri try last week. England will certainly look to cut him down as soon as possible, and the French won't have anywhere near as much freedom as they had last week, so players like Mermoz, Fickou and Nakaitaci, who looks like a useful player, will have to create their own space, show that little bit of magic which has been lacking in French performances for quite some time now.
It will be a tough game no doubt, France rose against the English last 6 Nations which left the English 2nd on points difference to Ireland. It most definitely could happen again, but the Twickenham faithful will look to carry them home.
Verdict: England 27 - 15 France
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